The U.S. Passport: History, Requirements, and How It Connects to Your USCIS Citizenship Interview

For many immigrants preparing for the USCIS citizenship interview, receiving a U.S. Passport is one of the most meaningful milestones on the journey to becoming a fully recognized member of American society. A U.S. Passport is more than a travel document—it is proof of your new identity as a U.S. citizen, your protection overseas, and your access to the full privileges of American life.

In this guide, we explore the history of the U.S. Passport, how to obtain one, the requirements to become a U.S. citizen, and how your U.S. Passport journey begins the moment you prepare for your USCIS citizenship interview.

1. The Historical Roots of the U.S. Passport

The story of the U.S. Passport goes back to the earliest days of the Republic.
In 1789, the U.S. State Department issued the first standardized passports, though documents resembling passports had been used informally since the American Revolution. These early U.S. passports were handwritten, signed by the Secretary of State, and contained a physical description of the bearer.

By the early 20th century, as international travel became more common, the U.S. introduced photo passports, machine-readable pages, and security features. The modern biometric U.S. Passport, which includes digital chips and anti-fraud technology, is one of the most secure identity documents in the world today.

Understanding this evolution helps applicants at the USCIS citizenship interview, because the interview often includes questions about American history, identity, and the responsibilities of citizenship, knowledge that eventually leads to your ability to obtain a U.S. Passport.

2. How the USCIS Citizenship Interview Connects to Getting a U.S. Passport

A U.S. Passport can only be issued to a U.S. citizen. Your journey to citizenship begins with preparation for the USCIS citizenship interview, the final step in the naturalization process. During the USCIS citizenship interview, the officer reviews your N-400 Application for Naturalization, tests your English skills, and evaluates your understanding of U.S. civics.

Once you pass the USCIS citizenship interview and take the Oath of Allegiance at your naturalization ceremony, you receive your Certificate of Naturalization, which is the primary document needed to apply for a U.S. Passport.

Thus, the U.S. Passport is directly tied to your performance on the USCIS citizenship interview, making thorough preparation essential.

3. Requirements to Become a U.S. Citizen

Before you can apply for a U.S. passport, you must first meet the eligibility requirements for U.S. citizenship. These same requirements are reviewed during the USCIS citizenship interview, which is why applicants must understand them clearly.

To qualify for naturalization, applicants generally must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Be a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) for 3 or 5 years

• Have continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.

• Demonstrate good moral character

• Pass the English test (unless exempt)

• Pass the Civics test

• Successfully complete the USCIS citizenship interview

These minimum criteria ensure that new citizens are prepared to assume the responsibilities of American civic life and passport ownership.

4. How to Apply for a U.S. Passport

Once you pass your USCIS citizenship interview and take the Oath of Allegiance, you can apply for your first U.S. Passport. Here’s how:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

For first-time applicants, you will need:

• Your original Certificate of Naturalization

• A government-issued ID

• Passport photos meeting U.S. Department of State requirements

• Completed form DS-11

Step 2: Apply in Person

First-time applicants must apply at a designated passport acceptance facility such as:

• U.S. Post Offices

• Clerk of Court locations

• County offices

Step 3: Pay Fees

Fees vary depending on whether you request a passport book, card, or both.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

Routine processing usually takes 6–8 weeks, but expedited options are available.

Your approval is straightforward, because passing your USCIS citizenship interview and receiving your Certificate of Naturalization already confirms your U.S. citizenship status.

5. Benefits of a U.S. Passport

Becoming a U.S. citizen and holding a U.S. Passport comes with significant advantages:

1. Global Mobility

U.S. Passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries.

2. Full Protection Abroad

If you face an emergency while traveling, U.S. Embassies and Consulates can assist you.

3. Proof of U.S. Citizenship

Your passport is recognized worldwide as definitive proof of U.S. citizenship—even more convenient than carrying your Naturalization Certificate.

4. Ability to Live Abroad Without Losing Citizenship

Unlike permanent residency, U.S. citizenship never expires, and you cannot lose it for simply living abroad.

5. Eligibility for Federal Jobs and Benefits

Certain federal jobs require U.S. citizenship.

These powerful rights all begin with your successful USCIS citizenship interview, which is the gateway to obtaining your U.S. Passport.

6. Interesting Facts About the U.S. Passport

Here are some surprising details that many applicants only discover after their USCIS citizenship interview:

The Blue Passport

The U.S. began issuing blue passports in 1976 during the nation’s Bicentennial to reflect the color of the American flag.

Hidden Artwork

Modern passports include beautiful illustrations of American landscapes, wildlife, and historical scenes.

Security Features

Modern passports contain:

• UV images

• Microprinting

• Embedded chips

• Watermarks

These prevent fraud and protect travelers.

Most Americans Now Have Passports

In 1990, only 4% of Americans held passports. Today, nearly half of the population does.

Understanding these facts helps applicants see the passport not only as a document but as a symbol of success in preparing for the USCIS citizenship interview.

7. How BeCitizen Helps You Pass the USCIS Citizenship Interview

At BeCitizen.us, our mission is to prepare you for every part of the USCIS citizenship interview:

• N-400 question practice

• English reading and writing tests

• 100 Civics Questions

• Mock interview simulations

• Realistic officer-style dialogue

• Confidence-building strategies

Because the USCIS citizenship interview is the critical step on the path to your U.S. Passport, the BeCitizen App is designed to ensure you are 100% ready.

Every U.S. Passport begins with passing the USCIS citizenship interview, and BeCitizen is here to guide you through it with clarity and confidence.

Final Thoughts

The U.S. Passport is one of the strongest and most respected identity documents in the world. It represents freedom, protection, global mobility, and the fulfillment of the American dream. But the first step toward holding one is preparing for and passing the USCIS citizenship interview.

By understanding citizenship requirements, following the naturalization process, and preparing effectively, you set yourself on a direct path to earning your U.S. Passport and enjoying everything it offers.

Explore more immigration guides, tools, and resources at www.BeCitizen.us, your trusted companion for the USCIS citizenship interview and beyond.